Alternative Breaks and
Global Community-Based Learning Programs
American University
Alcohol and Drug Free Agreement
I: Introduction
Alternative Breaks is a student run organization that believes in conducting drug and alcohol free trips and activities.
It is important for participants to recognize that behavior in violation of this contract can hurt the University’s
relations with the community we are serving, the host countries and institutions, the image of the Alternative Break
movement, and participants’ own health and safety.
By signing the following agreement, participants pledge to abide by the Alternative Breaks alcohol/drug policy and
the American University Student Conduct Code while on the entire trip. Additionally, participants pledge to abide
by the laws and standards of each country to or through which they will travel during the program. Please note that
the standards of this alcohol/drug policy are stricter than many local laws. Students who choose to violate this
agreement will be subject to the consequences outlined below.
II: Elements of the Agreement
A. Standards
During the Alternative Break trip, pre-trip activity, or post-trip activity, participants, regardless of age, may not:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Buy alcohol or illegal drugs.
Consume or be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Hold alcoholic beverages or drugs for oneself or another person.
Be identified with people drinking alcohol or using drugs.
Appear in representations where alcohol consumption is implied, encouraged, or condoned.
Wear clothing associated with drugs or alcohol.
B. Violation
If a participant is suspected of a violation for drugs or alcohol, the following steps will be taken:
1. A Trip Leader will address the incident.
2. A discussion about the incident will be held between the participant, a Trip Leader and a Faculty/Staff
Advisor as soon as a trip leader is informed of an incident. Trip Leaders and Faculty/Staff Advisors
hold an authoritative role in any such situation.
3. If a participant is found using or in possession of illegal drugs, local law enforcement may be contacted.
4. If it is determined that the agreement has been violated, the participant may be sent home at his/her
own expense.
5. For all violations, students may be referred to the campus conduct system following the return from the
trip.
6. For all violations, future Alternative Break participation will be left to the discretion of the Program
Coordinator.
C. AU Student Conduct Code
1. Participants will comply with the University’s rules, standards and instructions for student behavior,
including but not limited to the University’s Student Conduct Code, as if they were on campus.
Violations are subject to referral to the AU student conduct office.
By signing below, I confirm that I have carefully read and clearly understand the statements above. I have
reflected on my reasons for participating in American University’s Alternative Breaks program, and I agree to
abide by this agreement. I understand that if I violate this agreement I may be sent home at my own cost and
my participation in future Alternative Breaks may be temporarily or indefinitely suspended.
Additionally, I understand that I may also face consequences through the AU discipline process. If I observe
anyone violating the Alternative Breaks Alcohol and Drug Agreement, it is my responsibility to report the
violation to a Trip Leader or Faculty/Staff Advisor immediately.
I absolve, indemnify, defend and hold harmless American University from any breach of my violations of this
above agreement.
I have had the opportunity to ask questions and receive explanation for any statements and policies that I do
not understand.
I have read and fully understand the above provisions and agree to be bound by them, as indicated by my
signature below.
Printed Name _____________________________
AU ID______________________________
Signature _____________________________
Date _____________________________